November 10th 2017--- John Wetton & Geoff Downes’ iCon Zero Now Available on CD and Download!

iCon Zero is a revised presentation of the Wetton/Downes album and is a precursor to their iCon series of albums. It is essentially a collection of tracks mostly recorded in the late 1980s through the time of their brief reformation in 1990.

The original version of the album was released in 2002 and in retrospect seemed like an iCon album from a previous era, so both John and Geoff readily agreed to it being brought into the iCon family. John came up with the name Zero, and both John and Geoff approved the new front cover artwork.

The album has received a 2017 remaster and includes two previously unreleased bonus tracks.

Geoff Downes reminisced about this time period in their joint career with these comments: Icon Zero brings back many fond memories of working with John back in the early-mid 80s. Despite being the principal writers for Asia, we both felt there was at least one other string to our bow. This manifested itself in later years as the Icon project, and this album is an insight into the inner workings of our early relationship, not just as members of Asia, but also as songwriters. These recordings were made largely at weekends when we rented demo studios to try out our ‘other’ ideas and simply - have some fun time away from the pressures of the music business. Most of these songs were put together in a few hours, and written on the fly. Then, they were recorded straight down that same day. One great aspect of this was, we always seemed came up with something new, and as the inspiration flowed it was captured there and then even in its embryonic form.

Sadly John Wetton passed away in January 2017, but this release was already on the cards, with his Estate and Geoff Downes approving it going ahead as originally planned.

Geoff Downes had these further comments about his late bandmate: “John was a genius in every sense of the word, and I am most privileged to have been a big part of his career. The Icon project in itself stands alone as a complete cycle of our work together, and this album (Icon Zero) displays an important part of that development. The great John Wetton’s unique presence can be felt on every note and lyric of these songs. Please enjoy.”
iCon Zero will be followed by definitive edition re-releases of the subsequent three iCon albums, with bonus tracks, during 2018 with Geoff Downes’ personal approval.

June 6th 2017--- Wetton/Downes iCon announces the mainstream release of Urban Psalm on 2CD/1DVD OUT NOW!

The collaboration of the ASIA co-founders, John Wetton and Geoff Downes’ iCon, has led to the formation of Epicon Records (via Cherry Red) and its first release of Urban Psalm as a 2CD/1DVD set. The release was planned before John Wetton’s death in January 2017 and is fully approved by Geoff Downes and the Wetton Estate.

The concert was filmed at the iconic St Mary-le-Bow church in London and features a unique set including iCon songs, heritage tracks and the greatest hits of ASIA. This release of Urban Psalm is the first in a series of definitive re-releases of the iCon catalogue.

The Urban Psalm recording also features Dave Kilminster (Roger Waters, Keith Emerson) on guitars, Pete Riley (whom John called "the best drummer in the world" and played with Keith Emerson alongside Dave), Panic Room's Anne-Marie Helder on vocals and ELO's Hugh McDowell played cello.

Of the release Geoff Downes said: “Urban Psalm emerged out of a very special one-time concert featuring the music of John and I. Set in an historic church in London, the concert was recorded and filmed. Concert goers received a DVD as part of their attendance. Few people had the opportunity to see this live and until now has had very limited fan-based distribution”

The setting was historic and intimate and the film has not been shared widely until now, although fans came from around the world to participate.

AN EXTRAORDINARY LIFEAN INTERACTIVE CELEBRATION OF THELIFE & MUSIC OF JOHN WETTONJUNE 17, 2017 AT THEBERGEN PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

ASIA and their fans will pay tribute in a special concert to the late singer / songwriter, John Wetton, who spearheaded the legendary British band. The event is called “An Extraordinary Life” and will be a fully interactive celebration whereby fans can contribute to the remembrances of the acclaimed musician. It will be held on Saturday, June 17th at the Bergen Performing Arts Center in Englewood, NJ.

John Wetton, who was the lead vocalist, bassist and co-writer with the iconic group, lost his brave fight against cancer on 31st January 2017, just as the band was about to embark on a four month tour as special guests of Journey, recreating the days when both bands were world best sellers.

“An Extraordinary Life”, a reference to one of the band’s most popular songs, will pay tribute to John. Special guest Billy Sherwood of YES is filling in as bassist and vocalist. Also appearing will be current ASIA members Carl Palmer, Geoff Downes, and Sam Coulson. The group will do a full set of ASIA music, as well as some of the best loved songs from the members’ previous super-groups, bands such as King Crimson; YES; The Buggles; and Emerson, Lake & Palmer.

In addition to the ASIA performance, the evening will be highlighted with rare video clips of John and the band, historical footage and fan remembrances of John and his music. ASIA fans will be encouraged to send in written or video accounts of their love of the music and the man behind much of it. Still photos of fans with John are also welcomed and will be projected onto the screen. Fans who send media to the band in advance will be balloted to share memories on the evening.

Photos must be sent in a Jpeg format and fan video testimonials should be in mov. or MP4 format. These should not ordinarily exceed 30 seconds in length. Any written testimonials should be formatted as a text, or MS word file, and should not exceed 250 words.

A Q&A session will be held between the audience, ASIA and members of ASIA’s management. Along with this, never-before seen interview footage of John shot during the making of the band’s documentary film, “ASIA-30 Years On” will be shown.

• Fans can send their text memories, video testimonials, or photos of themselves taken with John before June 1st, 2017 to: jwfantribute@gmail.com

• Photos must be sent in Jpeg format;

• Fan video testimonials should be in mov. or MP4 format and should not ordinarily exceed 30 seconds in length.

• Written testimonials should not exceed 250 words as a text or MS word file.

• ASIA 2013 LLC and QEDG Management reserve the right to edit or remove submissions they feel are inappropriate.

• Once submitted, ASIA 2013 LLC, The Estate of John Wetton, and QEDG Management will have the right to use and distribute media submissions. This will include any commercial or non-commercial releases, media outlets or forms of social media as appropriate. The person submitting photos or videos must have permission from anyone who assisted in taking the shots.

Rock Music Legend John Wetton Dies (12th June 1949 – 31st January 2017)

Rock music legend John Wetton sadly passed away in the early hours of this morning, Tuesday 31st January 2017, after a long and courageous battle against colon cancer.

John rose to fame with King Crimson in the early 70s during the iconic Red era and later formed the band UK. In the early 1980s he was a founder member of supergroup ASIA which was his biggest commercial success. The band’s 1982 self-titled debut album was the biggest selling album in the world that year and gave fans and mainstream radio the mega-hit Heat of the Moment.

John also enjoyed a successful solo career, including the seminal album Battle Lines, and formed iCon with ASIA bandmate Geoff Downes. In 2006 the original line-up of ASIA reformed and toured the world several times to promote four new studio albums.

John had been planning to tour with ASIA for the band’s forthcoming US arena tour with Journey and following the success of his solo Studio Recordings Anthology, to continue working on the ongoing re-issue programme of his solo albums, via his own Primary Purpose label.

John valued his over 11 years of sobriety and volunteered time in fellowship with other alcoholics to share his experience, strength and hope with them. John is survived by his recently wed wife Lisa and 18 year old son Dylan, brother Robert and mother Peggy.

The very last studio song of John Wetton’s career was the closing track on the most recent and indeed final ASIA album “Gravitas” and included the profound lyrics “Think the best of me, till we meet again.”

January 24th 2017--- ASIA has announced the tour dates second leg of the tour with Journey can be found HERE

January 11th 2017--- A PERSONAL STATEMENT FROM JOHN WETTON

I am disappointed to announce that, on the advice of my medical team, I have to withdraw from Cruise to the Edge, and from the first leg of the Journey tour, March 15 - April 4.

I will soon be starting a new medical chemotherapy procedure, under which I will not be able to fly.

I am grateful to the promoters of the cruise. I wish them pleasant sailing and I know my friends on the cruise, both artists and fans, will have a ball on the ocean wave, I will be with you all in spirit.

My good friend Billy Sherwood will fill in for me within Asia, keeping my seat warm during the initial 12 Journey dates. While I am naturally disappointed to miss the beginning of what I know will be an historic ASIA tour, I am intending to return to the stage with Asia later in 2017, dates soon to be announced.I know this decision will be in the best interests of my health and our fans, in the long run.

John Wetton
Bournemouth
England
January 11th. 2017

December 23rd 2016--- John Wetton (@arkangel2605) on Twitter: "TFIF. On the eve of Xmas Eve,a wish for health & happiness to Tweetstadt. Gratitude for happy sobriety to abstinent friends."

December 12th 2016--- Frontiers Music Srl is pleased to announce the release of ASIA's new live album "Symfonia - Live In Bulgaria 2013" on February 24th, 2017.

Available on 2CD/DVD, Blu-Ray, and MP3 (audio only) the album was recorded during a special show on September 21st, 2013 during the Sounds of the Ages Festival at the magnificent Second Century Roman Theater in Plovdiv, Bulgaria. On some of the songs during the band's set, Original Asia was joined by The Plovdiv Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Levon Manukian.

Says John Wetton: "The show in the glorious Roman Theater of Plovdiv, with orchestra, along with the massive Sweden Rock Festival and the shows in the UK and the show European tour thereafter, were the first dates of the new chapter of ASIA-and in my opinion, the band has never sounded better."

December 5th 2016---Asia will be touring with Journey in 2017! John, Geoff, Carl and Sam are excited to see you on the road.

“Asia is honoured to be asked to share the stage with Journey,” says ASIA’s lead singer and bassist John Wetton, who has been fighting cancer since 2015 after the band finished its last US tour. “On a personal note, this couldn’t have come at a better time for me; I remain determined and my road to a full recovery continues. I look forward to seeing everyone on the tour next year”.

November 18th 2016--- The “Official Bootleg Archive” collects together three of Wetton's previously released “Official Bootlegs” - which have been out of print for nearly 10 years!

The “Official Bootleg Archive Vol 1” six CD set's audio has been remastered and includes new artwork, fully approved by John Wetton. The set is the seventh title released on John Wetton's own Primary Purpose imprint via Cherry Red Records.

November 17th 2016--- John has posted this on Twitter: "It is with huge regret that I announce my withdrawal from the role of King Arthur in the 'Excalibur' Arena tour of GAS countries in Dec. I will miss working with Manfred, Alan Simon,& the superb Prague Symphony Orchestra.My role will be ably taken by old friend Michael Sadler!"

September 20th 2016--- A double CD album by ACTION MOVES PEOPLE UNITED with 45 tracks of Musical Spoken Word and Songs will be officially released on Sept 21, 2016. Read the full press release here: http://www.actionmovespeopleunited.org/press/

March 23rd 2016--- John will be joining "Cruise to the Edge" next February, sailing from Tampa on February 7 and returning on February 11. Please follow John's Twitter for more information, and follow @cruisetotheedge for more information relating to the cruise.

February 19th 2016--- John is delighted to announce he will be a special guest star of the new “Excalibur” rock opera, which is touring German arenas in December 2016. More details to follow.

October 9th 2015--- JOHN WETTON is the lead singer of ASIA, UK and the “Red” era of KING CRIMSON, with an extensive solo catalogue, which now includes “Live via Satellite” OUT NOW !

This 2 CD set collects together both of John Wetton’s acoustic solo concerts for radio broadcasts. The XM radio broadcast was only available for sale via his website over 10 years ago and has never had a commercial release.

The Swedish radio broadcast (previously unreleased) was thought lost in a fire, until a duplicate of the master tapes was found thanks to a long and tireless search by John Wetton’s fans.

Of the release, John Wetton said: “Both of these shows are from the same time period, but come from very different sources. The first, a Circus tent-like venue in a funfair in Stockholm: the second, a state-of-the-art facility in Washington DC, so the repertoire is similar, but venues could not be more different. Recording production is superb on both, it's a document of a slice of my life.”

As a lead singer, bassist and songwriter, John Wetton initially rose to fame with King Crimson and after that Wetton co-founded UK. In the early 1980s he was the frontman of the super-group Asia, his biggest commercial success. ASIA’s self-titled debut album was the biggest selling album in the world in 1982 and the band continues to this day.

He later formed the duo Icon with Geoff Downes (YES and The Buggles) and has had a successful solo career releasing a large number of studio and live albums, including the recent compilation The Studio Recordings Anthology.

John Wetton's “Live via Satellite” will be released 9th October 2015 and is part of the ongoing release schedule of his own Primary Purpose label, working via Cherry Red.

DISC ONE
1. THE CIRCLE OF ST. GILES
2. HEAT OF THE MOMENT
3. BOOK OF SATURDAY
4. BATTLE LINES
5. ARKANGEL
6. THE SMILE HAS LEFT YOUR EYES
7. EASY MONEY
8. EMMA
9. 30 YEARS
10. HOLD ME NOW
11. RENDEZVOUS 6:02
12. THE NIGHT WATCH
13. YOU’RE NOT THE ONLY ONE
14. STARLESS

August 25th 2015--- A special note from John Wetton: "I start chemo 2moro--I urge everyone to be checked for cancer regulary 'cause cancer growth is rapid--and before you know it---agonising"

May 26th 2015--- Orchestra conductor Charles Hazlewood explores the progressive rock music of the 1970s. After Bill Bruford and Tony Banks, this week it is John Wetton’s turn to be interviewed. Ian Anderson finishes the series next week.

May 25th 2015--- JOHN WETTON STATEMENT - On May 16, John underwent surgery for the successful removal of a 1 kilo [2.2lb] malignant mass. John wishes to extend his thanks to Mr Chan and his team. John is also beyond grateful for the wonderful wishes and prayers received. John is recuperating. Messages can be sent via the management office to jw@qedg.co.uk

May 3rd 2015--- John Wetton’s BBC Radio 2 interview with acclaimed conductor Charles Hazlewood explores the progressive rock music explosion of the 1970s. One of four mainstream interviews with 1970s rock legends.

May 3rd 2015--- An all-star gathering of musical luminaries bring their warmest performances to a brand new tribute album featuring 16 acoustic renditions of the best song’s by The Beatles! Keep Calm And Salute The Beatles offers heartfelt and inviting contributions including by John Wetton who belts out a passionate and playful version of “Penny Lane.”

January 29th 2015--- We have been alerted to advertising for a concert on May 8 at the Temple of Music Arts, Tucson Arizona, featuring John Wetton. Please note, for the avoidance of doubt, that this is a spoof. It is not happening. As always, we remind you that unless a concert, CD, book, merchandise item or any John Wetton related issue is endorsed on Chasing The Dragon, it can be assumed to be piracy, or not officially endorsed, or both. Please do not part with your money.

January 26th 2015--- John Wetton is pleased to announce the forthcoming release of two more titles on his own Primary Purpose imprint, both of which are available to pre-order now:

John Wetton and The Les Paul Trio - New York Minute (Release date: 2nd March 2015)

New York Minute sees John playing a selection of the songs that inspired him, many of which are not available on any other release.

October 10th 2014--- John Wetton is on the Planet Rock Prog takeover show on Monday 20th October with Darren Reddick.

October 9th 2014--- Leslie Hunt from District 97 was guest backstage tonight at ASIA's show at Arcada Theatre. District 97 with John Wetton's live album "One More Red Night" was released in many territories last week and is out in America this coming Tuesday.

August 12th 2014--- ASIA to release live "High Voltage" CD/DVD on 25th August 2014

Recorded on the 24th July 2010 at the inaugural High Voltage Festival in Victoria Park, London, this ASIA live CD / DVD captures the band, in its original line-up of Geoff Downes, Steve Howe, Carl Palmer and John Wetton, performing classic material from the 80's, plus songs from the first two albums of its reunion, "Phoenix" and "Omega".

The show was performed to an enthusiastic festival crowd, ready to hear ASIA's eponymous debut album - the world's biggest selling album of 1982 - performed in its entirety for the first time in Europe.

Track list: Only Time Will Tell, Wildest Dreams, One Step Closer, An Extraordinary Life, Time Again, Cutting it Fine, Without You, I Believe, Here Comes the Feeling, Sole Survivor, Heat of the Moment.

“We’re proud to announce that Classic Rock Icon John Wetton of Asia & King Crimson will join the Rock Meets Classic Tour 2015. “Asia” the debut album by Asia was the biggest selling album in the world in 1982. Number 1 on Billboard album chart for 9 weeks. 7 USA radio hits including the worldwide smashes “Heat of the Moment” and “Only Time Will Tell”. Please welcome John Wetton!”

More information to follow

July 23rd 2014--- John Wetton thanks Japanese fans on promoter Udo’s website:

A full press release can be seen on the ASIA website by clicking here.

June 9th 2014--- John congratulates Krista Wallhagen and Kevin Mackie following Action Moves People winning the Independent Music Award in the "Spoken Word (with Music Accompaniment)" category. John voiced Krista's poem Grace Within.

March 14th 2014--- ASIA is proud to announce that they will perform some of the tracks from their well-
received current album ‘Gravitas’ for the first time ever at a couple of select UK shows in
June. The dates, at the Malvern Theatre and the Holmfirth Picturedrome, are on sale now.

‘Gravitas’ sees the legendary British band moving into the next phase of its extraordinary
career; this is a brave new album that explores different musical landscapes while
embracing its familiar musical past. Produced and written by band members John Wetton
and Geoff Downes, the album also introduces the world to the band’s new guitarist, Sam
Coulson, who replaces Steve Howe in the line-up.

ASIA’s debut album exploded onto the music scene in April 1982 and was the best selling
album in the world that year. Featuring Geoff Downes (keyboards), Steve Howe (guitar),
Carl Palmer (drums) and John Wetton (lead vocal and bass), the group was the logical
successor to their collective bands of the 70’s - Yes, ELP, King Crimson, UK and The
Buggles.

For ASIA's long-devoted fans, the band’s return to the concert stage cannot come soon
enough. As Carl Palmer says: "Performing on stage is where this band truly comes into
its element. Seeing the fans reacting to our music is what makes it all worthwhile. It is the
fuel that drives this train we call ASIA." John Wetton added, “Aware of the debt to our
homeland, we look forward to playing these two special dates in June to preview
'Gravitas', and introduce the latest, exciting chapter of this extraordinary band”. From
Geoff Downes, "We are very much looking forward to playing in front of our UK fans
once more. It's been quite a while, so of course we are extra-excited this time to bring our
music back to you all again. And in particular, we shall be including songs from our
brand new album 'Gravitas' - see you there!"

For more information or to request interviews please contact Chris Hewlett on 0845
601 2833 or email chris@chrishewlett.com

March 13th 2014--- Valkyrie has debuted at #13 on the Mediabase Classic Rock chart.

February 25th 2014--- The Huffington Post interviewed John Wetton, Carl Palmer and Geoff Downes about the new album, Gravitas. The interview can be read on their website.

grav·i·tas ('gravi,täs/ -noun)
1. dignity, seriousness, or solemnity of manner.
“a post for which he has the expertise and the gravitas”

ASIA, the legendary British band, moves into the next phase of its extraordinary career with Gravitas, a brave new album that explores different musical landscapes while embracing its familiar musical past. Produced and written by band members John Wetton and Geoff Downes, Gravitas is deeply introspective within a clearly accessible sound. The album also introduces the world to ASIA’s new guitarist, Sam Coulson, who came at the recommendation of Mr. Big’s Paul Gilbert.

Scheduled for release on Frontiers Records on March 5th (Japan); March 21st (Europe); and March 25th(North America), the album will be available in two configurations: a standard CD and a Deluxe Edition, that will include two bonus tracks and a DVD containing the “Valkyrie” music video, a promotional film, and footage of classic live ASIA tracks such as “Heat of the Moment,” recorded with the Plovdiv Philharmonic Orchestra in Bulgaria.

From the title track, Gravitas, which chronicles a man’s struggle in the battlefield of life, to the powerfully compelling tale of unrequited love, “The Closer I Get To You,” the album is a tour de force for the band whose music has become a staple to rock fans around the world.

“Pure, unadulterated and stereotypical ASIA, with raw energy, enthusiasm and free from impurities,” says John Wetton. “ It conveys the spectrum of emotion and colour from real life agonies to ecstatic fantasy of escapism. Great songs, fabulous performance. Gravitas is ASIA by ASIA. At last.”

“With the addition of Sam it allowed us to take the band in a slightly different, and perhaps tougher, direction.” says Carl Palmer. “He brings a different feel to ASIA with his guitar work. As a band we have been able to grow, while at the same time, remain true to the classic ASIA sound that our fans know and love.”

Gravitas, like its definition, brings dignity and a powerful artistic statement with some of the best songs Wetton & Downes have ever written and ASIA has ever recorded. On “Joe Di Maggio’s Glove,” Wetton sings of a man trying to understand how the power of love had changed him using the metaphor of the soft leather that that makes up baseball’s most famous glove: “I’ve never been completely lost/ I’ve never been so in love/ How did my heart become so soft?/ Like Joe Di Maggio’s glove…”

“Nyctophobia,” a haunting rocker built upon driving rhythm and vocal harmonies, looks at a person’s debilitating fear of darkness: “There is no air in here/ I’m drowning in my fear/ And if I close my eyes, the ground will disappear…” Gravitas‘ epic track, however, is “The Closer I Get To You,” likely to go down as one of Asia’ s most powerful ballads ever. Exemplifying a man’s frustration over his inability to rest in the sanctuary of the woman he loves, Wetton sings: “Our existence is just floating at sea/ Cut adrift from the people we are.” Musically, it features a blistering guitar solo from Coulson over the rich, layered vocals that have become part of the band’s trademark sound. Gravitas, the band’s fourth studio album since reuniting eight years ago, is already being heralded as the band’s freshest album since the classic records of the early 1980s.

“The idea was to give the band a new sound that would still complement the classic ASIA sound of our best known material,” says Geoff Downes. “We tried very hard to blend the cocktail just right where we could offer something different and still maintain the musical legacy we have built.”

Asia’s debut album exploded onto the music scene in April,1982, with several Top 10 singles. In the end, it was the best selling album in the world in 1982.. Featuring Geoff Downes on keyboards; Steve Howe on guitar; Carl Palmer on drums; and John Wetton on lead vocal and bass; Asia was the logical successor to their collective bands of the 70s – Yes, ELP, King Crimson, UK, and The Buggles.

Labeled a “supergroup” by critics and the media from the onset, it was a tag they had never asked for. Asia’s music- and its rock’n’roll stage charisma- developed organically and effortlessly. Though all four men had seen chart-topping success in their previous bands, Asia had a special chemistry that fans and music industry insiders were quick to recognize.

Asia became one of the most played acts during the first year of MTV. Throughout most of ’82, Asia ruled the radio airwaves and MTV. They sold out every date on tour, and the debut album crushed all the competition at record stores around the world.

The original line-up of ASIA reformed in 2006. It was the first time the four original members had worked together in 23 years. They regrouped with no more expectations than to play a single, reunion tour. Prior to Gravitas, ASIA had completed several world tours, released three brilliant studio albums (2008′s Phoenix, 2010′s Omega, and 2012′s XXX), as well as three live albums and Blu-rays / DVDs.

ASIA will embark on a world tour starting in June, and set to include Japan, UK, Europe, Canada and the United States.

Says Wetton: “Last summer, ASIA played live dates which opened in the UK, took in the massive Sweden Rock Festival, a short Germany/ Austria/ Switzerland/ Denmark tour, and a TV show in the glorious Roman Theater, Plovdiv, with orchestra. These were the first dates of the new chapter of ASIA—and in my opinion, the band has never sounded better. “

“It always was a great live band, but this time the dragon has awakened with fresh energy, direction and purpose. Extensive touring from June 12th to support Gravitas will consolidate any speculation regarding ASIA’s live credentials. Great songs, fabulous performance. Do not miss.”

“As with any new Asia album, putting it all together presents something of a challenge,” says Downes. “ In the case of Gravitas, it’s fair to say everyone involved rose way above and beyond this challenge. We sincerely hope you like the result.”

“There is a renewed energy when we step on stage now,” says Downes. “We can feel it and I know the fans can feel it.”

For ASIA’s long-devoted fans, the band’s return to the concert stage can not come soon enough. As Palmer says: “Performing on stage is where this band truly comes into its element. Seeing the fans reacting to our music is what makes it all worthwhile. It is the fuel that drives this train we call ASIA.”

January 31st 2014--- John is pleased to announce two albums he made with Richard Palmer-James are being re-issued as a 2 CD set. This 2014 re-mastered set features Monkey Business which has been out of print for nearly 10 years and Jack-Knife which has been out of print for nearly 20 years.

The release can be pre-ordered through the below link, with digital links to follow.

January 30th 2014--- John has written this blow by blow of the songs on the forthcoming ASIA album Gravitas:

As an ASIA record, Gravitas shows a whole spectrum of musical, lyrical and sonic material, a mix of prog, rock, pop, folk, classical, melodic, alternative---all as it should be, accessible songs about real-life relationships and situations. The album's original title was 'Valkyrie', and indeed that is the opening track of the collection. This song was the first to emerge from our (myself and Geoff Downes) many writing sessions that take place before the formal recording takes place.

I remember clearly we were in Wales (all our writing for this album was done either at Geoff's studio in Wales or in Dorset, where I live. I had the title and a chord sequence, and we tossed this around for a while, until something clicked, and there was a moment, that spark that ignites the afternoon, and tells us that we have something---the muse gives it her blessing, and another ASIA song is conceived.

The title had been buzzing around for a while in my head, and in my heart---I have read enough Scandinavian folk lore and literature to know what the function of this super-male sacred feminine can do---her purpose to choose between those who live or die on the battlefield, and to escort them safely and gloriously to the next world. I tried a version of Valkyrie which would be a modern, 21st Century businesswoman---but went back to the Valkyrie's original purpose of safe delivery to the afterlife, whatever that may be. It's wishing safe passage to someone who passed away---the imagery is of a battlefield where the storyteller is lifted by the Valkyrie and taken to a safe place---the recurrent Guardian Angel theme in the lyrics of Gravitas comes from personal experience.

The location of the birthplace of the song is echoed in the introduction, an Asian Welsh male voice choir. Haunting cello is provided by the lovely Katinka Steijns, who graces the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.

As with 'Valkyrie', I had the title "Gravitas' before the track was written, and it was at a band meeting where the majority vote went to this title for the album.

I wrote the intro/chorus chords on the 'magic piano' at home (on which many ASIA songs were written by Wetton/Downes from 1981 onwards---this piano has followed me through three major domestic location changes over the last 30 + years). However, the opening chords were destined to be played on a noisy, in-your-face electric guitar. The 'Gravitas' lyric is a fairly jaundiced view of emotional split/divorce, and all the acrimony that it entails, with a plea to leave the other party at least some of their dignity. Great guitar solo from Sam on this one---what gets me every time is just as you think he might be running out of steam, he kicks into another tone, and just nails it. Fabulous drums from Mr.Palmer on this, as on all the songs---he hits harder than any drummer I've ever worked with, he plays what is right for the track while maintaining his unique identity. 'Gravitas' is preceded by 'Lento', a beautiful Mahleresque adagio by Geoffrey---the calm before the storm.

‘The Closer I Get to You’ was one of the last two tracks written for this album. An intimate A and B section leads you into a huge chorus. The story is of the disintegration of a relationship. Most of us have experienced this, and it's not pretty, so it does strike a chord in most people---- including the two authors of this song. I tried to get the verses to sound as close as possible---no reverb, as if I'm speaking to you. The chorus is the opposite---kitchen sink meets The Hollies----definitive chords from GD, and our storyteller is confused and more than a bit angry. I thank Rob Aubrey, the vocal sound engineer, for his patience in the recording of this, it took a long time to capture the mood, many takes, and some tortuous editing.

'Nyctophobia', again one of the first batch of songs to be written---about fear of the dark. I had the opening line, and at my house in Bournemouth, Geoff and I expanded the sequence, and birthed the song. I hardly ever write about anything that I haven't experienced myself, and this is no exception---all of the characters you hear about are real, too---they may not do the jobs they appear to in the lyric, but they are real people---their names just fit the bill perfectly---it's the same with situations and locations, the songwriter's licence to adapt can be a mischievous device, but it also protects the anonymity of the person/location.

'Russian Dolls' ---the germ of this idea started on an iCon tour some years ago, when we took the mid-Winter midnight train after a club gig in Moscow, en route to an ice-stadium in Saint Petersburg. The trip takes all night, plenty of time to document the atmosphere of this incredible journey. Moscow Main Station in sub-zero snow at midnight, with all the steam, hustle, bustle was amazing, and the journey itself, down to the tea Samovar in your sleeper car, and the fur-trimmed uniform of the stewardesses---so evocative. Arrival in the morning---still freezing, but clear blue skies and the phenomenal city of St.Petersburg---it had to be documented. Geoff's verse, my chorus---and if anyone asks the question about 'as close as Russian Dolls' ---the answer is that one fits inside the other---and it doesn't get any closer than that.

'Heaven Help Me Now' was also in the first batch of songs that Geoff and I started playing with---it started with a chord sequence, and mushroomed from there. The 'Tryptich' nature of this song starts with a small request to a Guardian Angel, a short hymn, ‘Wings of Angels' which began its life 20 years ago in Vancouver B.C., into the second part, 'Prelude', which I remember Geoff playing at a sound check (Ton Probe) in Darmstadt on our last tour of Germany in 2013. When I heard it, I just asked GD to remember it, we agreed that it would be terrific in sequence on the album. The main body of the song is a plea to whatever is out there---sometimes I need a little extra help, if I'm running on my own power, it's simply not enough.

'I Would Die For You' was written by Geoff and myself around 1987, at a time when we would just go into a studio for a weekend and record as many new songs as we could. The Snake Ranch on Lots Road, Chelsea, Hans Zimmer's studio on Fulham Road, we would be toiling away writing and recording---of course we had no idea that any of it would be useful decades later, but IWDFY is a stonking, riffy, no-nonsense tune about love in the first blossom of lust. The guy just can't get enough of this poor girl, and would die for her---which leads onto the only uplifting love song of the album…………..

…………….’Joe DiMaggio's Glove', where the hero, a cynical, battle-hardened bachelor is tamed by a summer with the woman who loves him. The juxtaposition of his life before, then the change in his heart, is documented here, and for once, it's a happy ending. Is Joe's glove that soft? I've no idea, but it sounds great.

'Till We Meet Again" ends the album. It was not our intention to write a 'closer' for this collection, but this song seems to slip comfortably into that role--- a rocky, Celtic, rootsy hoedown. I'd been to a rock gig the night before in Southampton, and my ears were still ringing with this miscellany when GD and I started work at my house the next day. It's a
celebration of friendship, and a farewell to the audience to be well and think good thoughts until we meet again---in this world, or the next. Which is where 'Valkyrie' starts………

John Wetton, New Forest, Jan 30, 2014

December 24th 2013--- Asia's concert in Plovdiv, Bulgaria will be aired on Bulgarian National TV on the 30th December 2013 (with the Plovdiv Philharmonic Orchestra).

December 22nd 2013--- ASIA announces its first 2014 dates, please click on the below image for more details:

November 28th 2013--- Asia announces its new album GRAVITAS for release Spring 2014.

November 25th 2013--- John has been interviewed for Dr. Craig Wax's radio show which can be heard by CLICKING HERE

Dr. Craig M. Wax welcomes back the "Sole Survivor," himself, John Wetton, vocalist & bassist of Asia, UK & King Crimson. Today's episode of Your Health Matters is, "Surviving Rock Stardom." John Wetton talks about his music career spanning four decades and his health challenges as this "Phoenix," rose from the dust of deadly alcohol & cigarette addiction back to superstardom. John says he tells his story, "If I can help someone out, Ill gladly do it."

November 12th 2013--- John is once again helping to raise funds and awareness for testicular and prostate cancer through Movember.

October 27th 2013--- Following the standing ovation John received when he appeared with Steve Hackett at a sold out Royal Albert Hall, he is now back in the studio with ASIA working on their next studio album.

September 26th 2013--- Please click here for John's recent interview with Radio Tangra prior to the show in Plovdiv, Bulgaria.

September 11th 2013--- For those following John's guest appearances, you may be interested to see the two fronts covers that have just been published for the first time: Ayreon's The Theory Of Everything and Prog Collective 2. Click on each image for a larger version.

September 3rd 2013---

Iconic vocalist John Wetton joins progressive band District 97 for a two week US tour featuring the music of King CrimsonJohn Wetton (Asia, UK, King Crimson) records and performs with rising talents District 97 which features popular American Idol female finalist Leslie Hunt.

John said "It goes without saying that I am very much looking forward to once more sharing the stage with District 97---the most exciting, explosive and musical band of its generation. Audiences can also enjoy a little of what blazed the trail 40 years ago in the same evening. How magical!"

ACTION MOVES PEOPLE is a collection of poems and songs that are an inspiration to people of all ages. A strong message of self understanding, self empowerment and global oneness are themes woven throughout this album with an acknowledgement that we are all one people, regardless of race, religion, age and lifestyle; that we can all endure the challenges of life, uplift ourselves and one another, and help each other through life's easy and difficult moments. Within this collection, the artists deliver heartfelt and sincere performances of stirring poems and songs.

All proceeds from the sales of this CD benefit the MOVE THIS WORLD charity, which is a global nonprofit that uses creative movement to address and transform conflict and violence in communities. In partnership with schools, community-based organizations, families and corporations, MTW is building and connecting more peaceful communities with over 10, 000 individuals across 22 cities and 4 continents.

Produced by a team including Kevin Mackie, Krista Wallhagen, Whitney Peyton, Rave Tesar, Kevin Frank, and Bobby Susser, The CD is being distributed via CD Baby. It is also available online at iTunes and Amazon.

August 23rd 2013--- Asia is headlining the Roman Theatre, Plovdiv, Bulgaria on September 21st, 2013. John is looking forward to this show in particular and commented "This will be a unique show as an orchestra will be joining the band on stage for some pieces. The venue is of outstanding natural beauty and the whole show will be filmed to become our first DVD with new guitarist Sam Coulson."

August 9th 2013--- John will be touring with Eddie Jobson and Sonja Kristina in Japan this November. Two shows on the 9th and 10th November at Club Citta in Kawasaki have been confirmed.

(Click thumbnail for larger image)

July 24th 2013--- John will be touring with District 97 in the US at the following dates:

10/6-Shank Hall, Milwaukee

10/7-Winchester Music Hall, Lakewood, OH

10/8-Jammin' Java, Vienna VA

10/9-Sellersville Theater, Sellersville, PA

10/11-Regent Theater, Arlington, MA

10/13-Roxy and Duke's Roadhouse, Dunellen, NJ

10/15-Iridium, New York City, New York

10/17-Reggie's Rock Club, Chicago, IL

*10/14-John Wetton w/Les Paul Trio, Iridium, New York City, New York

July 22nd 2013--- John recently had a sneak preview of the new stereo CD with 5.1 DVD of the Steve Hackett Genesis Revisited Hammersmith Apollo show. John is special guest on “Afterglow”. It sounds magnificent.

This will be released in October (actual date not yet announced). We'll let you know when we get press / further details from Steve.

Don’t forget, John will be reprising the guest spot at The Steve Hackett Genesis Revisited Royal Albert Hall show on October 25.

July 22nd 2013--- ASIA will be playing Harley Davidson Festival in Faak Am See, Austria on the 6th September.

July 21st 2013--- John will be singing with The Les Paul trio at The Iridium, New York City, on October 14th.

July 4th 2013--- John has just returned from a trip to Germany and is now returning to fulfil his schedule, which includes several days in the studio and song writing for Valkyrie. John will also be working on a plan for the re-release of his solo catalogue with bonus material.